Baroques

Part of speech: adjective, noun

Definitions

1. Characterized by ornate detail and extravagance in art and architecture, exhibiting complexity and emotional depth
2. A style prevailing in Europe from the late 16th to the early 18th century that favored grandiosity and dramatic expressions
3. Pertaining to intricate, often theatrical compositions in visual and performing arts, as well as elaborate art forms in literature and music

Etymology: "Baroques" is simply the plural of "baroque," so the history belongs to that adjective and noun. The surprise is that the word began as a name for a flawed pearl. Via French "baroque," it comes from Portuguese "barroco," meaning an irregular pearl, and it is related to Spanish "barrueco" and Italian "barocco." Its ultimate origin is uncertain, though it may trace back to Latin "verrūca," meaning "wart," which would fit a lumpy, misshapen gem. Only much later did the word leave jewellery behind. It came to describe an art and architecture style marked by elaborate ornament and dramatic emotion, and eventually it was applied to a period of European culture. The shift from a deformed pearl to a standard for lavish, emotionally charged design is the core of the word's story.

Synonyms: ornate, extravagant, elaborate, flamboyant, decorative

Antonyms: simple, plain, minimalist, austere, unadorned